About Us

Seattle’s rowing community has been a strong source of support for local breast cancer patients as they face the battle of their lifetime.

Our History

Pink Ribbon Row traces its origins to the shared vision of Portland rower Kathryn Frederick and Seattle’s own Penny Lewis, co-founder of Martha’s Moms Rowing Club. Their passion and the dedication of countless volunteers helped shape the event into the largest rowing regatta supporting breast cancer awareness in the country. 

Since 1999, Seattle’s Lake Union has hosted this annual event, uniting the rowing community in support of those impacted by breast cancer in the Pacific Northwest. Originally partnering with a national organization, our focus was broad but always grounded in community action. Along the way, we became the proud home of the “Pink Erg” and the D.A.M.P.E.R. (Donating A Mammogram Per Every Rower) initiative. 

In 2022, we sharpened our mission, focusing on localized impact through early detection and post-diagnosis support. In 2025, PNW Pink Ribbon Row officially launched its own nonprofit organization to maximize the difference we can make in our community. We’re taking the next step to strengthen our mission—ensuring that every dollar raised continues to support those who need it most, right here at home.

Our Mission

Pink Ribbon Row empowers individuals affected by breast cancer through compassion, connection, and community support. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and uplifting environment that promotes education, early detection, and meaningful local impact—ensuring that resources are used responsibly, so every person feels seen, supported, and strengthened throughout their journey. Guided by transparency, empathy, and hope, we work together to leave breast cancer in our wake.

Our Values

Compassion

We lead with empathy, meeting each person where they are. By acknowledging the emotional, physical, and practical challenges of breast cancer, we create a space where individuals feel genuinely understood and supported.

Unity

Rooted in the spirit of rowing, we believe in the power of moving forward together. Our united community—athletes, survivors, families, and supporters—forms a strong, steady crew that no one has to navigate their journey alone.

Support & Awareness

We champion education, early detection, and open dialogue within our local community. Through awareness initiatives and accessible resources, we help individuals feel informed, empowered, and connected to a supportive network.

Inclusivity

We welcome individuals of every background, age, identity, and experience. This diversity strengthens our organization, broadens our understanding, and deepens our ability to uplift those affected by breast cancer.

Community-Centric

We ensure donations stay within the communities we row alongside. Keeping support local strengthens our direct impact—providing timely, meaningful help to neighbors facing breast cancer and reinforcing the power of investing in our own Puget Sound region.

Transparency

We honor the trust placed in us by ensuring that resources are used responsibly and effectively. With minimal overhead and clear, open practices, we direct the majority of donations to those who need support most.

Our Leadership & Members

Pink Ribbon Row is entirely powered by the commitment of our volunteers. Our committee is a consortium of rowers from various rowing clubs in the region, each having a connection to breast cancer – either as a survivor, a family member, or by having a teammate affected by this disease. Our unwavering dedication and exceptional efforts contribute significantly to the overall positive experience for all participants and attendees.

Leadership

Angie Gabel

PNW Pink Ribbon Row Chair

Angie has over 25 years of rowing experience, chaired regattas, and rowing events in Austin, TX, volunteered for ten years at the Head of the Charles, and competed nationally and internationally as a Masters rower. As a breast cancer survivor, she is enthusiastic about chairing Pink Ribbon Row since 2023 and making a difference for breast cancer patients in our local community.

Rachel Le Mieux

Regatta Director

Rachel has been involved in rowing since 1979 and is currently the Executive Director of Pocock Rowing Club. In 2023, she was the Regatta Director for the combined Pac-12 and GNAC conference rowing championships. Her extensive background in various leadership positions, outstanding credentials, and experience make her invaluable to run the regatta for our cause.

Mariah Foster

Chief Referee

Mariah has been the Chief Referee for PRR for many years and has played a pivotal role in the event’s growth. She began as a youth rower, continued through collegiate rowing, and later transitioned into officiating. Now a World Rowing Umpire, she brings global expertise to our local waters. Her decades of refereeing experience, combined with her unwavering commitment to athlete safety, make her an indispensable leader of the regatta. 

Committee Members

  • Patty Bulger, Registrar
  • Robin Ahman, Beneficiary Relations Coordinator
  • Birgit Bertram, Permitting
  • Oliver Laurence, Course Layout
  • Kate Riley, Community Relations
  • Charles Comfort, Volunteer Coordinator

Seattle’s Rowing Community

Fulfilling our mission is only possible due to the dedication of Seattle’s rowing community. We are thankful for their support in volunteering, racing, and fundraising – year after year. We couldn’t do it without you:

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Have a question or inquiry?

You are interested in supporting us? Do you have questions regarding racing, volunteering, donating, or philanthropy? Contact us!

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